K-pop has spread into the mainstream and is now loved by many people.
In 2021, BTS kept up the momentum from the previous year’s release of “Dynamite” while scoring a hit with “Butter,” further accelerating their popularity beyond just K-pop fans.
Solo tracks by girl group members, including BLACKPINK’s Rosé, also became major hits.
You also can’t miss the new-generation solo artists and the sleeper hits that climbed back up the charts!
It felt like there were many bright songs that broke through the mood of the time, giving listeners energy.
Let’s look back and listen to this collection of K-pop hit songs that defined 2021!
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K-pop that was popular in 2021. Korea’s Best Hit Songs (1–10)
ButterBTS
A world-conquering superstar, BTS’s 2021 number.
The massive success of their previous hit, “Dynamite,” is still fresh in our minds.
This track blends the silky smoothness of melting butter with uplifting, glittering brilliance in perfect harmony—one listen and you’ll be hooked for sure! With lyrics entirely in English, its positive message—inviting you to enjoy it together—will steal your heart and ease any anxieties.
It’s the kind of song that opens up a uniquely BTS world, perfect for starting your day! Released in May 2021, it spent 10 consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Billboard charts.
Rollin’Brave Girls
Brave Girls’ signature song that made huge waves in the K-pop scene in 2021.
Originally released in 2017, it surged back up the charts after footage from a military consolation performance went viral on social media.
Hugely popular as a summer tune, it’s striking for its tropical vibe and catchy melody.
The choreography using chairs and the dance that highlights their long hair are also captivating.
The hip dance that reflects the title is sexy yet refreshing.
A perfect track for summer drives and beach parties.
It’s truly a summer staple that gives you energy every time you listen.
On The GroundROSÉ
In 2021, many solo tracks became hits, and Rosé—BLACKPINK’s main vocalist—also saw success with “On The Ground,” included on her solo debut single.
Released in March, it ranked 47th on Melon’s year-end chart.
The song suits Rosé, whose voice is deeply rooted yet beautifully refined within the group.
Brimming with the energy to live strongly, it finds meaning in everything on the ground.
It even evokes an image of the world opening up.
After listening, you’ll surely be wrapped in a forward-looking, positive feeling.
HAPPENHeize
Haze, an R&B artist known for her high-quality tracks, released this song in May 2021.
It was included on her first album after moving to P NATION, headed by the globally known PSY.
Even among her many strong releases, this one stood out as a major hit, ranking 13th on Melon’s year-end chart.
Its sound and melody, steeped in sentimental elements and a uniquely wistful atmosphere, stir emotions that are hard to put into words.
It’s a track that will likely resonate with each listener’s own sensibilities.
It captures that feeling of déjà vu—like something you’ve felt somewhere before—and traces the mysterious interplay of coincidence and destiny.
바라만 본다(Foolish Love)MSG WANNABE (M.O.M)
MSG WANNABE is a music group born from the variety show How Do You Play? hosted by the national MC Yoo Jae-suk.
This is a medium-tempo number by M.O.M, one of the teams.
Spurred by the show’s massive response, it became a long-running hit and ranked 11th on Melon’s year-end chart.
It’s a love song about earnest, unrequited love.
The single-minded devotion it conveys is truly moving.
The overwhelming harmony delivered by vocalists with distinct individual charms is also thoroughly compelling.
Dun Dun DanceOH MY GIRL
A brand-new track that’s sparked the biggest reaction in OH MY GIRL’s history.
The moment you listen, you’re wrapped in a captivating world that’s sure to make you smile.
With lyrics that urge you to step out of the everyday and enjoy a special moment, it feels like they remind us of the importance of staying true to ourselves.
Along with OMG’s signature cuteness, there’s an aura that blends an inner, effortless sensuality with both brightness and delicacy—creating a fresh, genre-defining masterpiece.
And on music shows and other stages, their performance’s exceptional cuteness will definitely make your heart flutter…! Released in May 2021 as the title track of their 8th mini album, “Dear OHMYGIRL,” it became one of their biggest hits ever.
Next Levelaespa
Aespa’s music is defined by irresistibly addictive melodies that captivate listeners.
Released in May 2021, this track is a remake of a song from the Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw soundtrack.
While rooted in hip-hop, it features an innovative structure with unconventional shifts that leave a strong impression.
It also achieved major commercial success, including reaching No.
1 on Korea’s Melon chart.
The powerful beats and catchy phrases blend perfectly, fully expressing Aespa’s unique world.
Highly recommended for those seeking a fresh musical experience or a powerful track to boost your energy.
CelebrityIU
The lead single by South Korean singer-songwriter IU, known for her clear, translucent vocals.
Released in January 2021, it pairs charming synth sounds with a message encouraging listeners to cherish their true selves.
IU’s gentle voice celebrates the beauty of embracing individuality and feels like a reassuring push forward.
The song is included on the album “LILAC” and reached No.
78 on the Billboard Global 200 chart.
It’s a perfect pick when you’re lacking confidence or want to encourage someone you care about.
Hellojoy
Among the hit songs of 2021, the one I personally want to recommend is Hello.
It’s the title track from Red Velvet’s Joy’s special album consisting entirely of remakes, which also marked her solo debut.
While retaining the emotional essence of Park Hye-kyung’s original, it adds a driving energy that creates an even brighter, more exhilarating mood.
There’s a line about blowing away the clouds in your head, and that’s exactly how it feels—refreshingly uplifting.
Joy’s bright, endlessly soaring vocals are a perfect match, making this a superb cover.
Shiny Star(2020)Kyoung Seo
This is the debut song of rising sensation Kyungseo, which drew a lot of attention.
It was released in November 2020.
It’s a remake of Yang Jung Seung’s hit track.
Beyond its original widespread recognition, its easy-listening style—well-suited to the tastes of the 2020s and beyond—likely helped drive its success.
Not only did it compete for the top spot on digital charts and music shows against the hugely popular BTS, it also ranked sixth on Melon’s 2021 year-end chart.
The song features quintessentially Korean, emotionally rich lyrics and a gentle melody that are truly lovely.
Kyungseo’s clear voice further enhances the song’s charm, making it a perfect companion for peaceful moments with someone you love.
It’s a very beautiful, heartwarming love song.